Thais expected to travel more and spending more: Visa

The top travel destinations will remain in the Asia-Pacific region for the next year, with Japan at the top followed by South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and mainland China. 

“It’s clear that Thais love to travel – whether domestically or abroad,” Somboon Krobteeranon, manager of Visa for Thailand and Myanmar, said yesterday.

“This year’s Visa Global Travel Intentions study discovered that Thai travel behaviours are beginning to change as more go online to book their trips and use Visa payment cards on the go. 

“Visa credit or debit cards offer greater security for travellers and peace of mind, knowing that Visa is accepted worldwide and travellers don’t have to carry large amounts of cash.”

Travel remains very much a group affair, as 71 per cent travel with their family or spouses, 38 per cent travel with their friends or colleagues versus the 19-per-cent global average, and 23 per cent go in a group of six or more, versus the 10-per-cent global average.

Since most travel to nearby countries, short-haul flights account for 53 per cent. With the strong presence of budget airlines, most prefer economy or budget flights.

Most extend their weekends and public holidays to escape from the city. While most would go for cheaper options of travel, some are willing to spend on more comfortable lodging.

The good news is that visitors to Thailand plan to travel more and spend more. Among travellers across the four global regions – APAC, Americas, Middle East and Africa, and Europe – 77 per cent of respondents from APAC indicated a strong intention to travel more in the future. Residents from nine of the region’s markets stated an intention to travel more than the global average. 

Much of this increased travel is expected to take place within the region, where 80 per cent of Asian travellers chose to take trips in the past two years. 

These travellers are also spending more. Those travelling within the region spend an average of $273 per day, higher than both the global average of $239 and any other region. 

“This year marks our 15th year of partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and we are committed to ensuring the Kingdom maintains its position as a top travel destination,” Somboon said. 

“At Visa, a key focus is to introduce more tourist payment cards that enhance the payment experience for travellers across all major tourist hubs. That’s why programmes like the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale are important in driving economic growth for the country.”